Authorities fired and arrested Will Johnson, a worship pastor at 2|42 Community Church in Brighton, after discovering a hidden camera in the church's bathroom.

According to the Christian Post, the arrest and firing occurred after a hidden camera was found in the church's private areas, with Johnson admitting to the placement.

Johnson, 37, served as the worship pastor director at the church’s Brighton campus. It was in a bathroom backstage where the hidden camera was located by church authorities, prompting immediate action from the church leadership.

Upon uncovering the hidden camera, the church leadership wasted no time in contacting law enforcement. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office was notified, leading to Johnson's arrest at his home in Howell, Michigan. Authorities are now holding him at the Livingston County Jail.

Formal Charges and Court Proceedings

In a legal response to the incident, prosecutors filed multiple charges against Johnson, reflecting the gravity of his actions. Specifically, they charged him with surveilling an unclothed person, tampering with evidence, and using a computer to commit a crime. Subsequently, officials presented these charges to him in the 53rd District Court in Howell.

Meanwhile, Craig Ryan, Chairman of the church's Leadership Advisory Team, expressed his dismay in an email to the congregation. He confirmed that Johnson admitted to placing the camera and described the act as a violation against the church's community.

Following the first court appearance, the court has scheduled Johnson to return on September 24. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to eight years in prison.

Church’s Response and Safety Measures

The church has implemented extensive measures to prevent such an incident from recurring. Immediately after the discovery, church officials initiated a thorough search of the church's facilities. Furthermore, the leadership plans to hire a third-party professional to conduct more detailed safety assessments.

In addition, Ryan emphasized the proactive steps the church has taken in response to the incident. “Church leadership is thoroughly searching all of our facilities today, and next week we will engage the services of a third-party professional out of an abundance of caution,” he stated.

Moreover, the church promptly offered mental health assistance to those affected by the incident, ensuring that community members received support at the Brighton campus after Sunday sermons.

Community Shock and Church Safety Emphasized

Community reaction has been one of shock and betrayal. “We are shocked and deeply saddened by this situation as the protection, safety, and privacy of every person who enters our church is our priority," said Ryan, reflecting the sentiment in the congregation.

Additionally, Ryan reaffirmed the church’s commitment to being a safe space in the community. Although the church conducted thorough background checks, including on Johnson, he ultimately broke the trust placed in him. “Our desire and our consistent commitment is that the church should be the safest place in our community, which is why Will and all of our employees undergo thorough background checks,” he explained.

As a result, the incident has sparked a broader dialogue about privacy and security within community spaces, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilant and continuous protective measures.

Investigation Continues Without Further Discoveries

Authorities have committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation. Furthermore, “At this time, we do not know the full scope of this crime, but we are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation,” Ryan stated, assuring the community that all efforts are being made to uncover the full extent of the violation.

As of now, investigators have not found any additional hidden devices at the church. Nevertheless, the investigation continues, with community members and leaders hoping for swift justice and a restoration of trust and safety in their worship space.

Although the incident has shaken the community, church leaders and members remain resilient, rallying together to restore the sanctity and security of their worship environment.